REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can help:

Control your weight

Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease

Reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome

Reduce your risk of some cancers

Strengthen your bones and muscles

Improve your mental health and mood

Improve your ability to do daily activities and prevent falls, if you're an older adult

Increase your chances of living longer

IF YOU'RE NOT SURE about becoming active or boosting your level of physical activity because you're afraid of getting hurt, the good news is that moderate-intensity aerobic activity, like brisk walking, is generally safe for most people.

START SLOWLY. Cardiac events, such as a heart attack, are rare during physical activity. But the risk does go up when you suddenly become much more active than usual. For example, you can put yourself at risk if you don't usually get much physical activity and then all of a sudden do vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. That's why it's important to start slowly and gradually increase your level of activity. Read More. . .

Source: Centers for Disease Control.

HEALTH HELP

Links to local and national resources to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.